article

Winebago berdache

American anthropologist55 • Published In 1953 • Pages: 708-712

By: Lurie, Nancy Oestreich.

Abstract
This document shows how the role of the Winnebago berdache was still in evidence at the close of the 19th century, and how some of the cultural traits inherent in this particular role had parallels to those appearing among some of the Plains Siouan tribes. The data were gathered in most part from native informants, and provide information on the special position in the society played by the berdache, his status, special clothing, and receiving the 'call' to become a berdache. The author points out that in the case of a true berdache, the person retains a position of honor and respect in the society, but when he was forced to adopt the role (e.g., as a prisoner of war, or for some offense against society, as desertion in battle), without the blessing given by the Moon, he was dishonored and disgraced.
Subjects
Homosexuality
Interviewing in research
Status, role, and prestige
Comparative evidence
culture
Winnebago/Ho-Chunk
HRAF PubDate
2010
Region
North America
Sub Region
Eastern Woodlands
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 1964; John Beierle; 2008
Field Date
1945-1950
Coverage Date
1880-1947
Coverage Place
Wisconsin, Nebraska, United States
Notes
Nancy Oestreich Lurie
Includes bibliographical references(p. 712)
LCCN
17015424
LCSH
Ho Chunk Indians